United States Celia Cruz American Women Quarter Dollar Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, Philadelphia and Denver Mints, highly respected official government mint established in 1792.
Pattern: American Women Quarters Program, introduced in 2022 and running through 2025, celebrating the achievements and contributions of women to the United States.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, Philadelphia and Denver Mints, highly respected official government mint established in 1792.
Material
Cupronickel clad composition (8.33% nickel, balance copper), identical to standard circulating US quarters; not silver.
Dimensions
Standard quarter dimensions: diameter of 24.26 mm (0.955 inches), thickness of 1.75 mm, and standard weight of 5.67 grams.
Description
This quarter dollar honors the legendary Cuban-American singer Celia Cruz, widely known as the 'Queen of Salsa.' The reverse design captures her vibrant energy, featuring her smiling with a rhumba ruffle and her famous catchphrase '¡AZÚCAR!' emblazoned to the right. It is a striking modern circulating commemorative coin celebrating multicultural heritage and musical history.
Key Features
Distinctive portrait of Celia Cruz, prominent 'AZÚCAR!' lettering, part of the acclaimed American Women Quarters series.
Material & Composition
Cupronickel clad composition (8.33% nickel, balance copper), identical to standard circulating US quarters; not silver.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with standard relief portrait on the obverse and commemorative sculptural relief on the reverse featuring Celia Cruz smiling with her signature ruffles and the prominent inscription AZÚCAR!.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark (P or D) located on the obverse near the rim, along with standard statutory inscriptions including UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and 25¢.
Construction Details
Modern high-speed coin press stamping using multi-strike techniques on clad coin blanks produced by the United States Mint.
Functional Features
Standard circulating currency coin with reeded edge, designed for monetary exchange and collected as part of numismatic series.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a standard circulating coin without handles.
Craftsmanship Details
High precision modern die engraving and automated coin stamping reflecting contemporary minting technological standards.
Authentication Indicators
Standard US Mint striking characteristics, correct dimensions, weight, reeded edges, and micro-engravings authentic to modern mint production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Minted in the United States at official government mint facilities such as Philadelphia or Denver.
Era & Period
Modern Numismatic Era, specifically issued in 2024 as part of contemporary commemorative currency programs.
Age Estimate
Issued in 2024, contemporary modern issue.
Cultural Significance
Represents a significant milestone in United States currency design by honoring diverse cultural icons and celebrating Hispanic heritage and contributions to American music.
Condition Notes
Mint State to Circulated condition depending on handling; typical business strike with minor bag marks normal for modern circulating coinage.
Value Estimate
Face value of 25 cents in circulated condition; uncirculated rolls or specific mint sets generally trade for a modest collector premium of $1 to $5.
Care & Maintenance
Store in protective coin capsules, flips, or numismatic albums to prevent environmental toning and scratching if collecting in uncirculated grades.
Similar Pieces
Other quarters in the American Women Quarters series, such as those honoring Maya Angelou, Sally Ride, or Wilma Mankiller.
Interesting Facts
Celia Cruz was the first Afro-Latina to appear on US currency. Her famous exclamation '¡AZÚCAR!' became her trademark rallying cry in the salsa music world.